12-1 IAN Pneumonia in cows

 Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of mortality in young dairy calves and heifers. What producers may not realize is that respiratory disease also causes ongoing losses in animals that survive. Dr. Doug Braun is an Animal Health Veterinarian and says there are some steps producers can take to help prevent and treat respiratory disease in young animals. Step one - according to Braun - is making sure the calves are getting the proper nutrition. It starts with getting that high quality antibodies in calves  but then it really turns to making sure those future dairy replacements are getting fed adequately to maintain solid growth along with maintaining solid growth usually we have enough energy to maintain the immune system and help prevent risks associated with respiratory disease.”

 Now that the temperatures are dropping across the country - Braun says producers need to think about increasing calories. He suggests working with a nutritionist or veterinarian to ensure animals are getting the quality ration they need. Producers also need to consider the environment. Braun says the environment plays a significant role in the prevention of respiratory disease - especially this time of year